How long does COVID smell loss last?

A viral infection can temporarily affect the smell-sensing lining high inside the nose. Smells may seem faint, absent, or distorted as that system recovers. Loss of taste may occur because flavour depends heavily on smell; basic tastes such as sweet, salty, sour, bitter, and savoury can still be present.

Recovery is not always steady. You may notice brief changes, unpleasant odours, or improvement in one type of smell before another. Ongoing loss of smell can occur with Long COVID, especially when other symptoms such as fatigue, difficulty concentrating, joint pain, or low mood continue.

Use smell training by choosing a small set of familiar, distinct scents and gently smelling each one twice daily, giving your attention to what you notice. Keep the practice comfortable and stop if it causes marked irritation.

Make safety adjustments while smell is reduced: check smoke and gas alarms, follow food storage dates, and ask someone else to check food that may have spoiled. A clinician or pharmacist can advise whether nasal treatment is suitable, particularly if congestion is present.

Arrange a medical review if smell loss is not improving, returns after getting better, or interferes with eating, work, or safety. Seek urgent help for breathing difficulty, chest pressure, new confusion, inability to stay awake, or lips and skin that look blue or grey.

Ask whether your pattern fits COVID-19, whether congestion or another nose problem could be contributing, and whether smell training or a referral for assessment would help. Mention any altered smells, reduced appetite, weight change, or continuing symptoms.